Wednesday, December 31, 2008

The Vedic model of excellence (utkrishtata) highlights that excellence, when pursued in a holistic manner, leads in the ultimate analysis to the three-fold dimensions of Universal well-being encompassing Visva Vikasah (Universal Development), Visva Santi (Universal Peace) and Visva Kausalam (Universal Welfare). This model aims at maximizing the productivity, efficiency and effectiveness at all levels both horizontally and vertically. With the individual as the key foundation, this model projects a comprehensive picture at the universal level.

Excellence is an intrinsic art and an inherent attitude. Excellence is not about winning every time in one’s tasks and missions. It is not driven by the sole objective of achieving success at any cost. It is not a constricted approach to finish the task on hand either by hook or crook with an eye on the fruit of such action. Excellence is a holistic way of life of fulfillment and not a temporary strategy to win something somehow every time. Excellence is driven by enthusiasm and zest to perform to the fullest capacity and potentials of a person without an eye on what he may get out of it. The means are more important and sacrosanct than the end itself. The concept of excellence rests on the premise that one should give his best possible attention and efforts in doing anything that is chosen to be done. The end objective does not drive the process as the pursuit of excellence is based on inspiration, involvement, dedication, commitment, collaboration and completeness so as to bring the best out of all resources deployed in any given environment.

Excellence is joyous celebration and a way of life. It becomes deep-rooted within the persona. It constitutes the springboard of happiness. Like absolute bliss it is the ultimate pursuit: If only you know how to tap it and reach it.Excellence is a fragrant flower with eight petals constituting physical, emotional, intellectual, behavioral, ethical, relationship, cosmic and spiritual dimensions.

Excellence is not an end by itself. It represents a continuous journey forward to scale greater heights of efficiency and performance. When duly followed in letter and spirit, the Vedic model leads to individual excellence, organizational excellence, national excellence and universal excellence.1.1 3-S MethodologyFor the purpose of achieving all round excellence, the Vedas advocate the 3-S methodology comprising of Sadhana,Sausilyam and Sakti. These three aspects denote means, values and power respectively. Each of these is in turn three-fold.Sadhana deals with the three-fold path representing the entire gamut of human endeavor using then body-mind-intellect framework.The three-fold Sadhana (means) include Manasam (mental), Vacikam (oral) and Kayikam (physical). The mind is the fountainhead and source of any action that a person would like to attempt at. This is followed by what he speaks and communicates. The culmination is the physical action that one does thereafter. Thus the mind, the organ of speech and bodily action has to be closely aligned and integrated. This harmony has to manifest in the form of transparency. If each one contradicts the other, it can lead to a disjointed and untrue state of affairs.Sausilyam covers the code of conduct encompassing the three-fold dimensions of the eternal value system, which is blemish less, and worth emulating.The three-fold Sausilyam (values) represent ethical, moral and spiritual values. In the Vedic scheme of things, end alone does not justify the means. Thus there has to be proper value system built-in the thought, speech and action of any person. The Vedic code of conduct is based on the following postulates:(a) One should be blemish less and pure(b) Human body is given for serving others(c) One’s conduct shall be auspicious and acceptable to all(d) In case a person goes astray unknowingly due to ignorance, yet there is scope for his redemption provided he realizes whole-heartedly of his mistakes and deficiencies and resolves to address themSakti denotes the inherent power in an individual in terms of Will power, Knowledge power and Action power. This aspect is crucial in the pursuit of excellence.The three-fold Sakti (power) covers Iccha Sakti, Jñana Sakti and Kriya Sakti. These are Will, Wisdom and Work representing the 3-Ws of power. One has the power to desire about a thing. He has the power of knowledge to explore, understand, comprehend and reflect upon it. He has the power of execution so as to put into action his desires based upon his knowledge level. In order to excel, one has to be resolute, wise and active. A combination of these in tandem with a righteous objective leads to excellence. A proper desire coupled with the requisite intellect and action-orientation brings the best out of a person.1.2 4-M edificeThe 3-S methodology rests upon the 4-M edifice constituting self management, relationship management, cosmic management and spiritual management.The management of the individual in terms of human body, Prana (vital air), mind, and intellect represents Self management.Relationship management denotes the management of the social order and the spiritual order as well as relationships and interactions in a wide variety of circumstances and situations.

Management of the environment without any type of pollution and the positive invoking of cosmic forces constitute Cosmic management. The Vedas are deeply concerned not only with human welfare but also about the well-being of the entire Universe including the animals, birds, trees, plant life and the environment.

Spiritual management focuses on an inquiry into the Self and the bliss of self-realization.

Each one of the above can never be viewed in isolation but are closely inter-connected and inter-dependent. A person who aims at excellence need to master these four aspects of management with faith and determination.

The four-fold Purusarthas impel one to action. Accordingly, adhering to righteousness is Dharma; object of achievement may be termed as Artha, satisfaction in task accomplishment as Kama and flawless action done without any attachment to the fruits of action as Moksha. By this understanding one can achieve excellence in action.

1.3 Vedic StructureThe 4-M edifice is built on the Vedic structure which again has four parts. These are Samhita, Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishad. These four aspects of the Vedas are complimentary and supportive. Though they have different connotations, the underlying truth and reality among them is one and the same.

The Vedas are in turn four in number comprising the Rg Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and Atharva Veda. These deal, inter alia, with the holistic art of management, which are significantly relevant even in the modern times. They are stunningly applicable to complex business environment as well. A wide range of management concepts, principles and practices are brought to light by the Vedas, which benefit the entire humanity without any barriers of time, religion, race or frontier.

1.4 Three-fold excellenceThe three-fold excellence comprises of Karma yoga, Jnana yoga and Bhakti yoga.Excellence in action is known as Karma yoga, which represents action-orientation in terms of Physical pursuits.Excellence in knowledge is called Jnana yoga, which deals with Knowledge management in terms of intellectual pursuits.Excellence in devotion is referred to as Bhakti yoga, which is devoted to the cause that one is working for in terms of emotional pursuits.

These three are to be viewed as complementary and supportive to each other. Action without knowledge or devotion to the task assigned is valueless. Knowledge without action or devotion is fruitless. Devotion without action or knowledge is meaningless.When the three are properly aligned and assimilated, best results are produced. Any isolated approach may be partial and not effective.

1.5 Excellence in ActionActivity is the substratum of life. It is the soul of human existence. No human being remains separated from activity. From birth to death, one performs multifarious acts and deeds. These are sometimes done consciously with knowledge and at other times without knowledge. Each action (Karma) produces results. Positive actions lead to positive results and negative actions beget negative results.A human being does an action normally based on doership and he has a choice while performing any action. In a general scenario, he has three options. He can either do (kartum sakyam) or need not do (akartum sakyam) or can do otherwise (anyatha va kartum sakyam).When an action is done with a sense of doership, the Karta (Doer) becomes the Bhokta(Enjoyer). As long as there is attachment towards the result of the action, the doer is bound by any such action.One must understand Karma (activity) and strictly follow the path of righteousness. Karma can be distinguished from destiny in the sense that while destiny is primarily concerned with past and present, Karma includes besides past and present, future also. Karma drives one towards the pursuit of Purusharrtha, the throb of human existence.Only doing Karma here, one shall wish to live a hundred years.

[i]One should act with one mind and one thought.[ii]Deeds shall be pure.[iii]One who does not work is a social evil.[iv]It has to be understood that the eternal law of Karma is based on Dharma.[i] Vaj Sam lx-2[ii] RgV Sam x-64-7[iii] RgV Sam x-18-2[iv] RgV Sam x-22-8

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Vedas do not advocate the theory of evolution. They talk about creation of various species. The theory of evolution is against Vedic Authority. In the Taittiriya Samhita iii.1.1 of Krishna Yajur Veda, it is stated that Prajapati created Serpents, Birds and Human offsprings.

The Dasavatara (10 Avataras of Lord Vishnu) starting with Matsya (Fish), Kurma (Tortoise), Varaha (Boar), Narasimha (Lion-Man) and Vamana (dwarf) is not to be construed as one supporting the Darwin's theory of evolution. All these are divine manifestations of the same Supreme who is reverentially worshipped in the form of Lord Krishna.

Some say that those belonging to Kapi Gothra have originated from Kapi (Monkey). But this is not correct. The term "Kapi" also means Surya (Sun). This has to be kept in view. Hence Kapi Gothra means those who belong to the lineage of the Sun.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

(1) It is the Witness of the three states of consciousness consisting of waking, dream and deep sleep.(2) It is beyond the five sheaths constituting annamaya, pranamaya, manomaya, vijnanamaya, anandamaya.(3) It exists always whether in the past, present or future.(4) It is the consciousness principle .(5) It is ever in the state of bliss.(6) It is different from the gross body.(7) It is different from the subtle body.(8) It is different from the Causal body.(9) Weapons cannot cut it.(10) Air cannot dry it.(11) Fire cannot burn it.

The non-performance of Nitya Karmas results in sins.Naimittika KarmasNaimittika Karmas representing the rites to be performed on special occasions for a Grhastha (householder) mainly includes the following main 16 Samskaras (40 Samskaras are mentioned in the Scriptures) and other Pitru Karmas:

The Priests are required normally for the performance of Naimittika Karmas for overseeing the proper conduct of the Ritual ( Brhaspati, Brahma), performance of Japa , homams and also for giving Danams as ordained in the Scriptures.

According to Vedic Scriptures, the Supreme Bhagavan can be worshipped in five-fold forms.Para as Sriman Narayana in VaikuntaVyuha as Vasudeva, Sankarshana, Pradymuna and Aniruddha in the Milk OceanVibhava as Rama, Krishna AvatarasAntaryami as the One who is inherent deep in the heartArca as one who is in the form of deities in the Temples, duly consecrated.

The following Vedic Statements of Maha Narayana Upanishad support the above:Ambhasya Pare

Bhuvanasya Madhye

Nakasya Prushte

Jyothemshi Samanupravishtah

Prajapatiscarati Garbhe Anthah

This principle can be explained by an analogy. A person who is very thirsty has to get water quickly to quench his thirst. Suppose, you ask him to either wait for the clouds to be converted into Rains or guide him to go to the distant Ocean or advise him to wait for the future Seasonal flood to come or direct him to dig deep into the Ground to get the water, it may not serve the purpose. But if you ask him to take the water from the near-by pond where the pure water is readily available, his thirst can be readily quenched. The Idol Worship is like taking sweet water easily from the Pond. This denotes the easy accessibility of the Supreme in this form.

Bhagavan looks at the Bhakti Bhava and he cannot be reached solely through our limited knowledge.

Each one who propagates the cause of the Sanatana Dharma in the spirit of Unity in diversity is to be highly appreciated.

I would request that the variants in the belief systems in the ocean of Sanatana Dharma should not create any difference or disrespect or ill feeling to others. We may disagree politely but without hurting the sentiments of our own brothers.

Monday, November 10, 2008

We need to distinguish between " Intelligence" and "Intellect".Intelligence is mainly about acquiring knowledge from external objects and sources like teachers, educational institutions, Books, Media, Internet and so on. Thanks to the information explosion due to the technological advancements, each one wants to out beat the other, One has the power of information but it does not augment his intellect. He gets swayed by the powerful senses and the playful mind.

Intellect is all about contemplation, reasoning, concentration,reflection, investigation and inquiry about the Self which is eternal. It is purely internal and is concerned with the transcendental reality.

Our education is focussed only on developing the intelligence per se but is grossly inadequate on the development of intellect. Many do not have the time or inclination to look within as in the story of "Dasamosmi" forgetting the Self.

In the mundane materialistic pursuits greater Importance is given to the Outer cover of Sarira and not to the Atman who is the inner dweller. The former is temporary while the latter is permanent. As regards knowledge of the Self, it is more difficult and subtle as there is no distinction of Subject and Object in the path of Self realization.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

In the materialistic world of constant condemnation of a person, the Vedas provide the healing touch through the inspiring Maha Vakyas. These profound Vedic Statements motivate in a holistic manner all human beings cutting across the contours of caste, religion, race, gender or nation.

The Vedas equate the human being to the Supreme through the declaration “Tat Tvam Asi” -- Chandogya Upanishad vi-8-7 meaning “ That thou art” . This is a very important declaration as it is affirmed that “You are that {Supreme already}.”

When the knowledge “Sarvam Kahlvidam Brahma” --- Chandogya Upanishad iii-14-1 meaning “All this is verily the Supreme (Brahman)” dawns, one clearly understands that the ultimate truth is non-difference at the transcendental plane.

After getting this knowledge one begins to experience that “Aham Brahmasmi” --- Brihadaranyaka Upanishad i-4-10 meaning “I am the Supreme (Brahman).”” and revels in the state of eternal bliss. Thus knowledge transforms into wisdom and intelligence ripens as intellect.

Is it possible for all of us to achieve this exalted state of Self- Realization?

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Ahimsa (non-violence) is hailed in the Bhagavad Gita. It represents causing no injury to any living being at any point of time either by thought, speech or action.Ahimsa (non-violence) is referred to directly in four places in the Bhagavad Gita.

O Gods! Let us hear auspicious words through our ears.Let us see auspicious things through our eyes in the sacrifices.Let us enjoy a life that is beneficial to Gods.Let us praise the Gods with bodies having strong limbs.Let Indra of ancient fame be propitious to us.May the all-knowing Pusha be auspicious to us.Let Garuda, who destroys evils, be favorably disposed towards us.

Let Brhaspati grant us welfare.

This Shanti (Peace) invocation appears in the Mundaka, Mandukya and Prasna Upanishads. This Peace Chant ends with the prayer for protection from the Tapatrayas (Threefold miseries) Adhyatmika (Body, Mind), Adhi Bhautika (Animals, other living Beings) and Adhi Daivika ( Natural calamities like Earthquake, Flood,Tsunami, etc.)

Let my speech be in accordance with the mind. May my mind be based on my speech. May the Self-effulgent reveal to me. May both the speech and mind carry the Vedas to me. Let not all that I have heard depart from me. I join together through this study day and the night. I speak what is right. I speak the truth. May that {Brahman} protect me. May that protect the speaker. May that protect me. May that protect the speaker.

This Shanti (Peace) invocation appears in the Aitareya Upanishad. This Peace Chant ends with the prayer for protection from the Tapatrayas (Threefold miseries) Adhyatmika (Body, Mind), Adhi Bhautika (Animals, other living Beings) and Adhi Daivika ( Natural calamities like Earthquake, Flood,Tsunami, etc.)

Let my limbs, speech, vital force, eyes, ears, strength and organs develop well.Upanishads reveal all about Brahman. May I not deny Brahman nor Brahman deny me. Let me not spurn or reject the Brahman. May all the righteousness contained in the Upanishads repose in me, engaged in Self-Pursuit, may they repose in me.Om Peace, Peace, Peace.

This Shanti (Peace) invocation appears in the Kenopanishad and Chandogyopanishad.This Peace Chant ends with the prayer for protection from the Tapatrayas (Threefold miseries) Adhyatmika (Body, Mind), Adhi Bhautika (Animals, other living Beings) and Adhi Daivika ( Natural calamities like Earthquake, Flood,Tsunami, etc.)

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Taittiriya Upanishad - Brahmanandavalli --Shanti MantraSahanavavatu!Sahanau Bhunaktu!Saha Viryam Karavavahai!Tejasvinavadhitamastu Mavidvishavahai!Om Shantih Shantih Shantih!May He Protect both of us.May He help us to enjoy .May both of us exert together.May our studies be fruitful.May we not hate each other.Om Peace, Peace, Peace.This Shanti (Peace) invocation is used at the beginning of scriptural study every time. This is intended to foster goodwill, harmony and bondage between the Teacher and the Student.This Peace Chant ends with the prayer for protection from the Tapatrayas (Threefold miseries) Adhyatmika (Body, Mind), Adhi Bhautika (Animals, other living Beings) and Adhi Daivika ( Natural calamities like Earthquake, Flood,Tsunami, etc.)

Saturday, September 6, 2008

The term "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" represents universal brotherhood as enunciated in the Vedic Statements:

"Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma”, {All this is verily the Supreme}

“ Isavasyamidam Sarvam”. {All this is clothed by the Supreme}

From another standpoint "Bhagavan is the great grand father of all". Therefore all belong to His family only. "Narayanad Pravartante, Narayane Praleyante" { Everything originates from the Supreme Narayana and finally merges in Him}

The so-called divisions in the Samsara( World) are due to Maya(illusion) .Each one claims that his religion alone is the best.

Friday, July 25, 2008

The Vedas urge the business organizations to be the harbingers of the Value system through transparent ethical practices in the best interests of the society at large. The Vedas stress upon moral and ethical conduct and appeal to every one to be guiltless and blemishless. They give the clarion call for value-centric business practices. The individual value system of the various employees together shape up and determine the value system of an organization to which they identify themselves with.

Vedic quotes on Value system management

One shall be sinless and righteous.One shall be straight forward.

One should give back what he has borrowed or consumed so as to be guiltless.One should be guiltless in this world as well as in the higher and the third world. One should abide in guiltlessness.One shall not wander from the highest of the path.One should go by the path of virtue.

One’s life should be in conformity with Vedic teachings.One should not covet the wealth of any man.One shall be led by the good path.A moral wins no riches by unworthy praise.One shall turn away from all evil.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Vedas are repository of all true knowledge, and the Management is no exception. It is rarely that we come across an authentic book on Vedic Management.

The above book presents an integrated unified theory of Vedic Management, which is essentially a holistic in nature, with individual, social, cosmic and spiritual dimensions It successfully identifies, focuses, analyses, classifies and consolidates the various management principles enshrined in the Vedas. The learned author establishes that the Vedas are the veritable mines of managerial wisdom of great contemporary relevance and significance for the modern – day managers. It presents a vibrant and versatile model of managerial excellence aimed at achieving individual and organisational excellence.

Starting from Vedic Self- management (Chapter 1), it emphasises that if the individual is transformed then it becomes easier to relate oneself perfectly with the external world. In the Vedic Relationship management (Ch.2), it reinforces that the societal interaction calls for proper understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and inter-relationships among the various segments of the society interacting with the individual and contributing towards the whole. Vedic Cosmic Management (Ch.3) encompasses, at broader level, the environmental aspects , Human Welfare management, and cosmic powers, comprising primordial elements(Space, Air, Fire, Water, Earth) for universal peace and well-being , which impel human beings to identify themselves closely with the natural order and work in unison with the cosmic environment. It also reinforces to maintain a pollution free pure environment, protecting the primordial elements, both for the present and future generations. Vedic Spiritual Management(Ch.4) leads us from the macrocosom to the microcosom, as after deep contemplation and reflection from the above study one comes to the realisation that there is nothing beyond the real Self(Atman), as the ultimate object of human endeavour. Thus, such a 4-dimensional Vedic Management model is evolved, which applies across a wide variety of situations and environments, and which knowledge helps one to develop, master and control the art of living for greater fulfilment and contended meaningful life, and beyond.

Vedas and Modern Business Management Principles (Ch, 7) delves deep into the various Management Functions (Planning, Organising, Controlling, Directing( Leadership, Motivation and Communication) including Financial and Budgetary control, Feedback and Rectification Processes, and how they have been extensively dealt with in the Vedas, concluding: “ A clear-cut examination of the Vedas reveals that the modern business management principles are of Vedic origin.’ It is followed by Vedas and Modern Business Management Practices (Ch.7) and encompasses the practices in Financial Management, Knowledge Management, HRM, Relationship Marketing, Trade and Commerce, Time Management and Social Responsibilities, TQM(Total Quality Management(including Kaizen), Culture management, Value System and Ethical Practices, Corporate Governance, Globalisation, and Productivity/Competition/Change Management, and last, but not the least, Managing One self. ”For example, under Financial Management, it has been averred that: “the Vedas repeatedly call upon everyone to earn and maximise wealth. The primary function objective of Financial Management is maximisation of the shareholders’ wealth. The Vedas inspire all to be associated with increase of wealth. They advise one not to reject or condemn wealth. They urge upon one to be prosperous.” In support of these contentions the learned author has cited as many as fourteen citations from the Vedas,, with proper references in the Annexure ‘End Notes’ (2206 references). The learned author’s has, therefore, concluded: “An in-depth analysis of the Vedas proves that the wide spectrum of modern business management practices are convincingly of Vedic origin.”

Then, Vedic Model of Excellence (Chap. 8) that follows highlights that (Vedic) excellence when pursued in a holistic manner, leads in the ultimate reckoning to the three-fold dimensions of Universal well-being encompassing: Visva Vikasah(Universal Development), Visva santih(Universal Peace) and Visva kausalam( Universal Welfare). This model aims at maximising the productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness at all levels, both horizontally and vertically. With the individual as the key foundation, this model projects a comprehensive picture at the universal level. With Vedic Structure built on 4-M edifice (Samhita, Brahamana, Arayyaka and Upanisad), and 3-fold excellence (Karma Yoga. Jnana yoga and Bhakti yoga ), one is inspired (under ‘excellence in Action’) with Vedic quotes like Utttiishata jagrata prapya varannibhodhata (Arise, Awake and learn by approaching the excellent Teachers), Ya esa suptesu jagarti(one who is awake while others are asleep, etc.). For Universal Excellence Rig Veda has been aptly quoted: “Common be your prayers. Common be your goal. Common be your purpose. Common be your deliberations. United be your mind. United be your resolve. United be your hearts. Perfect be the union among you.” (RV Sam .X-191-2 to4. Chapter 9(Summary and Conclusions) nicely summarises the learned author’s conclusions on his intensive research-based endeavour on the topic of Vedic Management.

The book with about 270 pages, with exhaustive Index, 56 Tables, 21 graphics, and with Appendix 1 (An Overview of Vedas under 17 sub heads ), Appendix 2 (Index of Selected Vedic Terms, Appendix 3 (Abbreviations to End Notes and Exhaustive End Notes ( with as many 2206 citations from Vedas and Vedic literature) is worth reading by all Vedic enthusiasts , Vedic research scholars and management students , who aspire to delve into the Vedas to find their relevance for the Modern management. It will be found as a glittering gem for all Vedic Institutions and Management CollegesLibraries. Its Price and Publishers’ details are:Book Title: Vedic Management: The Holistic Approach to Managerial Excellence : by Dr.S.Kannan. ISBN: 81-7496-900-4, Price: Rs. 675; Publisher: Taxmann Allied Services (Pvt.) Ltd.,59/32, New Rohtak Road, New Delhi-110 005(India); Email: sales@taxmann.com

One who knows the flower of waters, becomes the possessor of flowers, progeny and cattle.

Moon is the flower of waters. One who knows thus becomes the possessor of flowers, progeny and cattle. One who knows the foundation of waters becomes firmly established.

Latest Scientific Discovery

"A new scan has shown the presence of water in Moon rock at levels not previously thought possible.""We looked at many factors over a wide range of cooling rates that would affect all the volatiles simultaneously and came up with the right mix," said James Van Orman, a former Carnegie researcher now at Case Western Reserve University.

"It suggests the intriguing possibility that the Moon's interior might have had as much water as the Earth's upper mantle."

Saturday, July 5, 2008

The Vedas highlight the importance of music as an expression of ancient human culture and heritage.The Vedas reflect as to who has given music to man.The Vedas contain references about a number of musical instruments, string and percussion, notes of drum, conch and lute.

Vedic Quotes on Music

In the sacrifice, hundred stringed lute and earth drum are played.Singers inspire in assemblies.The war-drum drives foeman very far.The singer shall be assisted in his holy task.For sound, a drummer; For might, a lute-player ; For cry, a flute-player; For unsynchronous tone, a conch-player.For pleasure, a musician.For song, a public dancer.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Success or failure is the outcome of action (Karma) done by a person in a given environment. While every one aspires to be successful in whatever he does, the reality is many times otherwise. In some cases, he achieves success and in many others, he encounters only failures. Thus even a so-called highly successful person fails in certain endeavors. This is due to the fact that the fruit of action is not in one’s hand . There is no one standard recipe for ensuring success at all times. While action always produces fruits, when and where one person gets to enjoy the same is shrouded in the mystery of “Karma Phala.”

When a person focuses on achieving success while performing the action, he gets tensed, disturbed and anxious. These are impediments in the pursuit of excellence in the path of “Karma Yoga.” In the ultimate analysis , while one cannot ensure success , he can always strive to achieve excellence in whatever he does. The result is to be accepted as “Isvara Prasada.” One has to maintain equanimity and be a Sthita Prajna.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Cognitive Science is a multi-disciplinary domain with main focus on mind and intelligence. It deals with sensation, perception, learning, memory, language, imagery, cognition, nuero-anatomy and so on. It covers the functioning of the brain, mind, culture and neuropsychological basis of alternate states of consciousness.

Concept of knowledge in Vedas

An analysis of the Vedas reveal that the concept of knowledge is well embedded therein from time immemorial. They are a veritable mine containing knowledge repositories which transcend the barriers of time and space. They deal with the knowledge framework from a holistic perspective with universal application.

Vedas and cognitive Science

The Vedas present different dimensions of knowledge encompassing Jnana, Vijnana, Samjnana and Prajnana. As Vedas cover extensively the various dimensions of mind, knowledge and intellect, they would be of immense help and guidance for proper research in the domain of Cognitive Science.

This implies that each person is unique and distinct. Just by fulfilling the requirements and expectations of one person, you are not sure that you would be in a position to do so in respect of others. Thus mass production of products or rendering of services to cater to all customers has now lost its significance. Instead, the focus is on fulfilling the expectation of each individual customer. As this normally varies from one person to another, there is no absolute non-duality. Therefore, the philosophical principle of duality is inherent in this approach.The potentials for satisfying the requirements and expectations of each and every person representing resources(G) are Visvam(Universal).

Monday, June 9, 2008

Knowledge management plays a vital role in ensuring the success of any business organization. The knowledge workers hold the key in modern days for the success of any business enterprise. In view of their importance, they are being given a lot of recognition like participation in the top management and lucrative stock options besides excellent working environment and enriching job content.

It is a challenging task to understand the real sources of knowledge and convert the tacit knowledge residing in human repositories into explicit knowledge for the purpose of knowledge dissemination and sharing across all members of the organization.

Human resources are the treasures carrying the needed knowledge and skills for carrying out any venture. Hence fully harnessing the limitless human potentials is very significant. The tacit knowledge inherent in the human beings has to be converted into explicit knowledge tactfully to benefit the knowledge.

For any knowledge to take place the following three factors are important:(a) Prameya representing the object to be known.(b) Pramata denoting the knower of the object(c) Pramana indicating the means of knowledge

Knowledge acquisitionThe Vedas attach great importance to acquiring knowledge. The Vedas reiterate that only knowledge liberates a person. Whatever is done with proper knowledge becomes more effective. Only when there is definiteness, knowledge is possible.

Vedic QuotesOne who knows that which is the eldest and the best verily becomes the eldest and the best.One who knows that which is supreme surely becomes supreme.One who knows that which steadies, surely remains steady in the rough and the smooth.One who knows that which has prosperity attains the object he desires.One who knows that which is the ayatanam (resort) becomes the resort for all.One who knows and meditates becomes progressively higher and better.Whatever is performed with knowledge, faith and meditation becomes more effective.By knowledge men ascend as Seers.One shall walk on the pathway having known it.Knowledgeable persons correct the faults and failures.

Vedic QuotesIt is the inspirer of gracious thoughts.It lightens every pure thought.It brings all good.One who knows and meditates becomes progressively higher and better.1By Vidya one attains endless life

Avidya (Ignorance)The Vedas caution that one who follows the avidya shall traverse and suffer in darkness. A person without requisite knowledge shall not be appointed to a position, which demands possession of knowledge.

Vedic QuotesMen who engulfed by nescience (avidya) go to blinding darkness.One shall not appoint a priest who does not know.

Vijñanam (Wisdom)The Vedas attach paramount significance to wisdom, as it is the foundation for clear and unambiguous understanding of the reality.

Vedic QuotesWisdom is the light which is to be won.One shall obtain wisdom, thought, fervor and power.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

Relationship MarketingThe Vedas highlight the importance of cordial and continued relationship building, which is crucial for effective relationship marketing. The basic qualities required are pleasant speech, gentleness, graciousness, helpful attitude and courtesy.

Vedic quotes on Relationship Marketing

One shall be very kind and gracious.One shall speak pleasantly.One shall quickly listen to others’ calls.One shall help and work for others.One shall strengthen the welfare of others.One shall be friendly, who can be counted upon.One shall entertain the guests befitting his standard.One shall perform more deeds to their completion.One shall speak in concordance.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the buzzword which is engaging the attention of progressive companies.Based on the Vedas, CSR can be deployed effectively for achieving sustainable competitive advantage resulting in enhanced productivity and profitability Based on the Vedas, CSR can be looked at from three dimensions constituting the individual, social and cosmic perspectives. This has a holistic approach on a wider canvas.

The focus of the Vedas is on self-management by individuals so that one remains unblemished and resolute even under trying and tough circumstances.

Vedic self-management refers to the art of managing the self as an individual and wholesome entity. At this micro level, one has to manage his body at the gross level, the soul at the subtlest level and the mind and intellect at the intermediary levels. Without proper management of the self, there cannot be excellence coupled with ethics, which form the basis for human emancipation. A human being possesses enormous powers and potentials, which have to be properly nourished and harnessed. Self-management constitutes an important part of human resource management.http://www.thectoforum.com/article.php?prodid=34

Vedas emphasize that the cosmic energies have to be positively harnessed for the welfare of all living beings in the universe.

Human beings are never alone as a species in the Universe. They are also inter-connected with the Earth, Sun, Moon and other planets orbiting in their appointed domains. In ultimate reality, nothing remains unconnected in the cosmos. By properly aligning one's consciousness in line with the principles of natural law, he can march towards perfection and maximize efficiency as well as effectiveness through universal managerial excellence. One has to clearly understand the natural laws and be in total sync with the cosmic rhythm.

The Vedas is a vast storehouse of managerial “gyan”, that’s based on indepth research of man’s personality traits.

How useful is it to pursue managerial excellence today?AN individual thinks, speaks and acts through which one's own vasanas (inherent impressions) find expression. His bent of mind, attitude and aptitude are broadly determined by them. The vasanas which are subtle in nature form the substratum of one's personality. The inherent core nature of an individual manifests in the form of one's personality. The impact of one's personality is so great that it touches upon and influences any person that he may come into contact with.

The Vedas declare that one shall not only be the possessor of wealth but also a distributor of wealth. They highlight that there shall be proper distribution of wealth from the wealthy to the poor. They also condemn those who enjoy all the wealth themselves without partaking it with others.

Vedic Quotes on social distribution of wealth

One shall not be selfish and consume all by himself.

Wealth should be accumulated through hundred hands and distributed to thousand hands.

Friday, May 23, 2008

The Supreme (Brahman) has willed that there shall be many Gods for the benefit of the seekers. Based on the inherent impressions (Vasanas), one’s personality is built up. Each person is made up of the three-fold attributes (Trigunas) of Satva, Rajas and Tamas. One who is predominantly Satvic (peaceful) worships Satvic Gods. One who is Rajasic (egoistic) worships Rajasic Gods and one who is Tamasic (indolent) chooses to worship Tamasic Gods.

Though there are many Gods the root source of all is the same Lord Vishnu, who is omniscient and omnipotent. He is the efficient and material cause of creation of the Universe including all other Gods. Lord Krishna declares in the Bhagavad Gita that whomsoever worships whatsoever deity, He makes their faith steadfast in that deity and He alone bestows the blessings to the seeker through that deity. He further states that one reaches the abode of the deity of his choice. More importantly, one who worships Lord Krishna reaches His abode and he is not re-born in the world of misery again.

Thus in the Vedic scheme of things there is absolute freedom for one person to choose his preferred deity and there is no compulsion for all to worship mechanically the same deity. Based on one’s own understanding, faith and determination, a person can worship a deity of his option. Though God is one in the ultimate analysis, the learned describe it as many from the standpoint of the ability and inclination of the individual seekers to grasp Him.

There is a scheme of divine decentralization and delegation of powers amongst the Gods. Each God has a specific role and responsibility. This helps the seeker to go in for the specific God seeking certain results. The divine hierarchy is a manifestation of the will of the Supreme to establish the principle of peaceful co-existence and unity in diversity.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

The Vedas highlight that one shall have different sources for augmenting wealth and that it shall be available ceaselessly at all points of time. They encourage one to be prosperous by having multiple channels for earning income.

Vedic Quotes

The doors of wealth shall be unbarred.Wealth in thousands should dwell and should never disappear.People are to be masters of plentiful riches.Wealth has to be brought from all sidesThere should be unexhausted availability of foodgrains and its eaters as well.Like a perennial well having numerous springs, one shall have an unceasing supply of grains from a thousand sources.One shall obtain prosperity for ever.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

The Vedas inspire, motivate and enthuse one to maximize wealth and drive away poverty. The Vedas encourage one to increase wealth and be prosperous. Celestials are propitiated for bestowing wealth in a number of Vedic hymns.

Vedic Quotes on Wealth maximization:

Increase of wealth, unfailing thousand fold prosperity and prosperity throughout the year are sought.One shall rejoice in increase of wealth.One shall unite with increase of wealth.One shall prosper with thousand fold prosperity.One shall long for richesAgni is prayed for increasing one’s wealth.One shall be a master of abundant riches.The abundance of a thousand fold wealth shall not fail one.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Human beings are never alone as a species in the Universe. They are also inter-connected with the Earth, Sun, Moon and other planets orbiting in their appointed domains. In the ultimate reality, nothing remains unconnected in the cosmos. Aligning one’s consciousness in line with the principles of natural law, he can march towards perfection and maximise his efficiency as well as effectiveness. Maintenance of natural order and pristine ecological balance is the sine qua non for ensuring human well-being.

The Vedas specify four types of living beings, namely, andaja (born of eggs), jivaja (born of womb), svedaja (born of moisture) and udbhija (born of earth) and declare that these are impelled by Prajnanam (consciousness) .

The Vedas deal exhaustively with the splendors of the cosmos in a wholesome manner. They unravel the mysteries of the vast and unexplored forests.

The Vedas present picturesque, spectacular and diversified range of fauna and flora. They urge the human beings to protect, preserve, nurture and nourish the environment and natural habitation in its pristine glorious form.

1.1 Environment management

The Vedas attach great importance to environmental protection and purity. They insist on safeguarding the habitation, proper afforestation and non-pollution.

For the welfare of all the humans and other beings, the Vedas seek a sweet and pleasant environment consisting of sweet breeze, sweet flowing rivers, sweet and beneficial herbs, sweet day and night, sweetness of earth particles, sweet fruit bearing trees, sweet and beneficial Sun and sweet bearing cows.

1.1.1 Habitation

The Vedas insist that one shall protect the habitation.One should protect the habitation.There should be a fair and spacious habitation.Waters as friends of man give full protection to man's progenies.

1.1.2 Afforestation

The Vedas stress the need for protection and development of forests. Human beings have to safeguard the trees. The Vedas assert that the plants and trees are verily the treasures for generations.

1.1.2a Vedic quotes on afforestation

1. One shall not destroy the trees.2. One shall delight in plants and waters.3. Plants are mothers and deities.4. Trees are homes and mansions.5. Gods delight themselves in plants and waters.6. Let plants be friendly to us.7. Speech is the voice of the trees, the voice that is heard in the drum, the lute and the flute.8. Trees are connected with Visnu.9. Plants and waters are treasures for generations.

1.1.3 Non-Pollution

The Vedas give the clarion call for non-pollution of the environment. They condemn in unequivocal terms those who pollute and defile the environment. Waters are invoked to be friendly to humanity.

1.1.3a Vedic quotes on Water

1. This Universe was only water in the beginning.2. Waters and herbs should have no poison.3. Waters are to be freed from defilement.4. Waters cleanse humanity from the evil of pollution committed by it.5. Waters have satisfying savour of the honey-mixed with splendor.6. Waters bear off all defilements and cleanse people.7. Waters and plants shall be friendly to people.

Vedas contain reference to a wide variety of animals and urge humanity to safeguard their well-being. Protection of animal welfare is considered important for proper human welfare. Three-fold divisions of animals are seen in the Vedas in terms of those of the air (vayavya), those of the jungle (aranya) and those of village (gramya).

1.2a Vedic quotes on animals

1. Let the animals of the earth and heaven, wild beasts of the forest and winged birds protect humanity from calamity.2. So many are animals, bipeds and quadrupeds.3. Prayers are offered for the welfare of animals and men.4. As haya (steed) it carries the gods, as arvan (courser) the asuras, as vajin (racer) the gandharvas and as asva (horse) the men.5. Homage is paid to the serpents on the earth, in the atmosphere in the sky, among the trees and in the wells and waters.6. Happiness is sought for quadrupeds.7. All bipeds and quadrupeds shall be free from disease.8. One shall not find fault with the animals.9. One shall increase the cattle wealth.

1.3 Plant life

The Vedas call upon the human beings to safeguard and nourish plants and trees. The Vedas mention about plants and trees.

1.3a Vedic quotes on Plant life

The Vedas hail the trees, the roots, the panicles, the corona, the branches, the leaves, the flowers and the fruits.

Let plant and creepers grow upwards.One shall not damage the roots of the plant.Herbs have remedial powers.May fruit-bearing plants ripen.

Earth, air, space, water and fire are the five great elements.The link between the Panca bhutas and men is clearly established by the following Vedic expression.From space, air.From air, fire.From fire, water.From water, earth .From earth, the herbs.From herbs, food.From food, man.

1.4.1 SpaceThat which accommodates is space.

Vedic quotes on Space1. Akasa is the body of the Brahman.2. This space is honey to all beings and all beings are honey to this space.

1.4.2 AirThe Vedas declare that air is sweet and pleasant . It has healing powers.

Vedic quotes on Air

1. This air is honey to all beings and all beings are honey to this air.2. May wind blow pleasantly for us .3. Wind blows healing balm, blows all disease away.

1.4.3 FireThe Vedas eulogise Agni (fire) in the form of an important cosmic force. Fire is considered to be the bestower of wealth. It is only through fire that all the oblations to the deities and forefathers are offered.

Vedic quotes on Fire

1. This fire is honey to all beings and all beings are honey to this fire.2. Agni is worshipped for increase in wealth and riches.3. Riches, heroes, food, progeny and longevity are sought from Agni.4. Agni is worshipped for bliss.5. Agni slays the foes.6. Agni purifies one and drives ill-fortune far away.7. One shall be victorious through the victory of Agni.8. Agni is the Brahman.

1.4.4 Water

The Vedas declare that all that is seen is water and that they are the nectar conferring happiness to all. With a social objective, they emphasise that the waters are common resources to be used by all. Water is the essence of food.

Vedic quotes on water

1. This water is honey to all beings and all beings are honey to this water.2. Water is mother.3. The divine water full of sweetness averts the diseases of men.4. Waters are the nectar.5. Waters are propitiated for being friendly.6. Waters are healing.7. Waters are verily bliss-conferring.8. Verily all this is water; All the created beings are waters; The vital breaths are waters; The quadrupeds are waters; Edible crops are waters; Ambrosia is water; The creator is water ; Man is water; Metres are waters; Vedic formulas are waters; Truth is water; All the desires are waters; Three worlds earth, sky and heaven are waters; Plants are waters.

9. Water when drunk gets divided into three parts; The grossest ingredient is urine; The middling is blood; the subtlest is Prana.

1.4.5 Earth

The Vedas glorify the earth as one’s mother and advise one not to cause injury to the earth. They proclaim that earth is the bestower of happiness, sustainer and supporter of all forms of life.

Vedic quotes on Earth

1. The Earth is the mother.2. The Earth makes one sharpened and brilliant3. The Earth is adorned with variegated things.4. The Earth is the giver of happiness, the sustainer of life and the supporter of all living beings5. This earth is honey to all beings and all beings are honey to this earth.6. One has to sustain the earth and injure not it.

Monday, May 19, 2008

In the scheme of nature, there is a free will for an individual to do something or not to do something or do differently. This is the free space available to us.

Destiny , on the other hand, plays its trick starting with the birth of a child. Why one is born poor and another rich ? Why one is healthy and another has serious birth defects? One loses the mother the moment it is born? One is born dead? The questions are too many.

But what is the force which causes such disparities ? Whether God is to be blamed for this partiality?

The only logical answer could be the Karma Theory which explains that the human being takes birth to exhaust his Prarabdha Karma. This gets extinguished only by experiencing in the world , going through the vicious cycles of pleasures and pains. In the process there is always a little scope to do some action within a limited domain. Just like a Cow which is tied by a long rope has the freedom to move within the space determined based on the length of the rope, human beings have some free will to exercise. Beyond that limited area the tied cow cannot roam about. This represents the force of destiny. The reason why people lose their precious life suddenly due to accidents, dieseases, natural calamities like Tsunami , earthquake and so on cannot be otherwise explained.

Self- effort is absolutely essential for any one without taking shelter under the guise of destiny. Therefore one has to do his Svadharma in a given environment without any expectation. If destiny decides otherwise, one should have the will power to take it in his stride in a positive manner. For this meditation techniques help a lot to make one develop equanimity towards the dualities. One should take caution not to abuse the little free will that is available to him.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

No one can remain in this world without action. Ritual is a series of action in a pre-defined sequence. The moot point here is the application of mind consciously into what is being done. Action without mind being focussed towards it is fruitless. Thus importance is given to devotion(Bhakti) through the mind(Manasam) though physical activities (Kayikam) and speech (Vacikam) are also involved.

Without absolute faith (Sraddha) whatever one does is a sheer waste.The mechanical performance of rituals is like a body without soul. Hence action has to be done with inspiration and absolute faith.The major obstacle in the path of action is the attachment that one develops towards the fruit of action. It is obvious that any actionbrings with it some fruit. If one is blindly attached towards the end result, he gets into trouble. Though every man does some action in order to be successful, he is not in fact the bestower of the fruit of action. It is only the Supreme who calls the shot in this regard. In the ultimate analysis, the outcome is determined by factors beyond one's control.

Another impediment in the pursuit of action is ego (Ahankara). One thinks arrogantly that he is the doer of an action. But Bhagavad Gita says that one who sees action in inaction and inaction in action is the true seer.Thus in the Vedas though rituals like Soma Yaga can take one to Heaven(Svarga), it cannot ensure absolute release(Moksha). Though Heavenly life is at a higher pedestal, it is like an office or place of profit with a fixed tenure. Once the tenure is over, he is again pushed back to Earth. Thus in the tradition, the hell is considered as an iron cage while Heaven is the golden cage. One who understands the limitation of action surrenders at the feet of the Supreme with single-pointed devotion by placing total faith on Him unconditionally without any expectation.Though a person has committed sins in the past , the Vedas do not condemn him for ever. If he realizes his mistakes he can start his march towards redemption. Thus the Vedas encourage one to make use of his present fruitfully instead of dwelling into the guilt of the past or the anxieties of the future. Certain acts like Sacrifice (Yajna), Charity(Danam) and Austerity(Tapa) should not be given up as these purify a person.

Being Spiritual is to make an in-depth inquiry and understand clearly about the true nature of the individual Self (Atman) and the Supreme (Brahman) and unite oneself with the Supreme.

About Me

I am interested in Vedic studies , Vedic culture and Philosophy.My Book on Vedic Management has been published by Taxmann, India.
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